Get Ready For Your 2018 NSW RTA Test Now

Are you ready to take on the NSW RTA driver knowledge test? Prepping to get your learner's permit or driver licence can be stressful without a little help. Use our FREE practice tests to help you study and highlight any areas that may need a little work before you take your exam with your personal Challenge Bank. Our questions are based directly from the official 2018 New South Wales Road Users’ Handbook and will look almost identical to what you’ll see when you take the actual test. You’ll have questions on road signs and rules, fines and limits, road safety, and traffic regulations, so there can be a lot to learn! Study up using our Driver’s Handbook tab and then test your knowledge with our Practice Tests that can help you along with hints and explanations. Finally, use our Test Simulator to see how you’ll fare taking the actual RTA exam. Whether you’re planning a fun trip to Sydney, a relaxing beach day at Bondi Beach, or an invigorating day of surfing at Byron Bay, the thrills of New South Wales are ready and waiting for you to hop in the car and make your way. Good luck!

Option 1 is to bring a NSW Photo Card that is current, or has expired within the last two years (provided it’s not recorded as lost, stolen or destroyed)

Option 2 is to bring one of the following ‘List 1’ documents...

An Australian full birth certificate showing parental details issued by the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages

Commemorative certificates are not acceptable (except for 1987 and 1988 NSW Historic Birth Certificates). See the Births, Deaths and Marriages website for information

An overseas birth certificate showing parental details, provided a passport or an official Australian travel document is also shown

A current Australian passport or one that expired within the last two years. Validation with the Australian Passport Office may be required for passports issued within the last two years. Passports that have been cancelled for any reason, are not accepted

The following travel documents issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade:

A current Certificate of Identity

A current Document of Identity

A current Titre de Voyage

A current overseas passport. Passports that have been cancelled for any reason, are not accepted

An Australian naturalisation or citizenship document, issued by the Australian Government

The following documents issued by the Australian Government:

A Visa Evidence Card

A Document for Travel to Australia (up to five years from the date of issue on the accompanying visa)

Evidence of Immigration Status (EIS) ImmiCard

Permanent Resident Evidence (PRE) ImmiCard

Residence Determination ImmiCard (RDI)

A Roads and Maritime issued NSW photo driver licence or NSW Photo Card that has been expired more than two years, but less than five years. The licence must display a card number and not have been revoked or reported as lost, stolen or destroyed

A current photo driver licence from another Australian state or territory, or one that expired within the last two years. If your interstate licence shows your middle name(s) as initial(s), you’ll require another supporting List 1 or List 2 document that shows your full name

A current photo identity card for the NSW Police Force, excluding civilian staff or family

A current consular photo identity card, issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

...PLUS one of the following ‘List 2’ documents:

A current green or blue Medicare card, Pensioner Concession Card, Department of Veterans' Affairs entitlement card or any other current entitlement card issued by the Australian Government

A current plastic credit card or account card issued by a bank, building society credit union, American Express or Diners Club International, showing your name and signature

A passbook or account statement or letter up to 12 months old, issued by a bank, building society, credit union, American Express or Diners Club International, as long as it includes the following:

Customer's family name and first given name in full

Customer's residential or mailing address

Account number or account type

Financial institute letterhead or financial institute branch stamp.

A telephone (landline only), gas or electricity bill up to 12 months old

A water rates, council rates or land valuation notice up to 12 months old

A current student identity card displaying your photograph, issued by an Australian secondary school, TAFE or university. Where a student identity card has an issue date but no expiry date, it may be accepted up to two years from the date of issue

Evidence of enrolment at an Australian secondary school, TAFE or university up to 12 months old, on the institution's letterhead and showing your name and address

A current Mobility Parking Scheme (MPS) permit issued by Roads and Maritime, with or without a photo

A current photo identity card for the Australian Defence Force, excluding civilian staff or family.

Where will I be applying for my New South Wales learner licence?

You can do this at any Service NSW centre. Service NSW is a system of centralised offices that combine the services of NSW Roads and Maritime Services (such as vehicle registration, for example) and other government offices in one convenient location.

What are some ways I can contact my nearest Service NSW centre?

Should I bring another person with me for my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

You’re welcome to bring anyone you like to the Service NSW centre with you! You’re not required to bring anybody in particular, though.

Do I have to receive a physical exam before I get my New South Wales learner licence?

No, but you are required to alert NSW Roads and Maritime Services if you have a medical condition, or if you take any prescription medicines that may impact your driving ability. Be sure to fill out the medical report section on your licence application form if this applies to you.

Will I be taking an eyesight test when I apply for my New South Wales learner licence?

Yes, you’ll have to prove to an examiner at the Service NSW centre that your visual acuity is at least 0.5 (6/12) on the Snellen scale. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you should bring them to the Service NSW centre with you, because you’ll need them for this test.

Will the Service NSW centre take my photo when I apply for my learner licence?

Yes, at certain locations. At those offices, when you apply for a licence, your card will be posted to you at no extra cost - and when you apply for a licence or want to renew online, you’ll get a paper receipt, which will act as proof of licence status until your actual learner licence arrives in the post. The Online Services section of MyRTA also allows you to renew your vehicle registration online, book your licence test, and check your demerit points.

Should I avoid wearing certain colours when I get my licence photo taken?

No, there aren’t any colors to avoid. Just wear any clothes you’d wear on a normal day!

Do I need to pull my hair back when I get my licence photo taken?

Not necessarily, but it shouldn’t be hanging in your eyes or covering any of your face. As long as that’s not a problem, then just wear your hair the same as you’d wear it on a normal day!

Will I be allowed to wear makeup for my licence photo?

Yes, you’re free to wear whatever makeup you’d normally wear. Again, the goal of this photo is to provide a faithful representation of the way you look on a normal day!

Will I be allowed to smile in my licence photo?

No, NSW Roads and Maritime Services doesn’t want anyone smiling in their licence photo. It’ll be easier to use that photo to establish your identity if you’re keeping a straight face in it.

Are there some other ways I can make sure I get an attractive licence photo?

Not really - just relax your face, look straight at the camera, and do your best not to blink!

I’ve filled out my application for a New South Wales learner licence. What’s next?

Your next step is to visit a Service NSW centre, submit your documents, and sit your Driver Knowledge Test (DKT). After you’ve passed your DKT - as well as a simple eyesight test - you’ll be registered as a learner driver, and you’ll be able to start driving. As long as you’re driving on a learner licence, though, you’ll be required to:

Only drive cars

Be supervised at all times by the holder of a full (not learner or provisional) Australian driver licence

Have L plates displayed (black L on an orange/yellow background) clearly at the front and back of the vehicle, on the outside (or an L sign on the roof) when driving. The letter L on the plate must not be hidden

Observe a maximum speed limit of 90 km/h, and observe the posted speed limit where it is below 90km/h

Not tow any other vehicle

Not exceed zero blood alcohol concentration. This means you cannot have any alcohol in your system when you drive a vehicle. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of drugs

Not supervise another learner driver

Only carry the number of passengers that can be properly seated in seats and restrained by approved seat belts or child restraints

Only drive vehicles that have a seat belt fitted to the driver's position, and you must wear the seat belt

Not use any mobile phone, including hands-free devices or loud speaker, while driving, or while your vehicle is stopped, but not parked.

If in Sydney, not drive in Parramatta Park or Centennial Park.

My question doesn’t seem to be here. How can I find an answer?

One handy place to look for answers is our Beginner Driver Q & A Section, where you can get a quick answer from one of our professional driving experts! You can also feel free to send us an email: aussie-driver@gmail.com

How Should I Prepare For My New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test (DKT)?

What should I be studying to prepare for my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

Where can I find some study resources that’ll help me on the New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

Right here on this website! Start with the first of our 3 FREE practice tests, which use actual sample questions from the NSW Driver Knowledge test - here’s the first one: NSW Learners Practice Test 1. Just keep practising with our tests as many times as you need to, until you’re all prepared to take on the real Driver Knowledge Test! It’ll also help to study for few minutes here and there, whenever you have a moment to yourself. Keep reviewing your Road Users’ Handbook, and before long, you’ll be an expert on most of the material covered on the DKT!

Am I required to complete any formal driving instruction in order to get my New South Wales learner licence?

No, NSW Roads and Maritime Services doesn’t require you to take any classes - but you will do a lot better on the test, and become a much better driver, if you sign up for at least a few hours of formal driving instruction.

Do I have to study the whole Road Users’ Handbook to be prepared for my Driver Knowledge Test?

Yes, you do. Each individual test includes questions chosen at random from all throughout the book - so you’ll have the best chance of passing if you know the whole book back-to-front.

Is there such a thing as a Driver Knowledge Test app for my iPhone/iPad?

There will be soon - because we’re making one! Keep checking back on this website, because you’ll soon have an easy way to practise for your test on your mobile device!

What are the topics covered on the New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

The specific questions vary from one individual test to another, but the NSW Roads and Maritime Services website provides a list of sample questions for you to check out. They’ll cover topics like vehicle safety, laws of the road, meanings of road signs, and driving tactics for different times of day and different weather conditions. A lot of websites provide sample questions, too - but many of them offer just a short list of questions, then try to charge you for a sample test. Don’t waste your money - just use all 3 of the FREE full learners practice tests right here on this website, starting with the first one: NSW Learners Practice Test 1. Driving students all across New South Wales use our free practice tests to help them with their DKTs - and many of those students pass the test on their very first try!

Where can I find some free practice quizzes for my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

I think I’m ready for my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test! What should I do now?

When you’re all set to take the real test, you’ll need to make an appointment to sit your DKT. You can book your appointment online, by phoning 13 22 13, or in person at any Service NSW centre. On the day of your DKT, just visit the centre where you’ve made your appointment, and make sure you bring all the necessary documents:

Where should I go to get my New South Wales learner licence?

The one way to get your learner licence is to pass the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) - which you can only do at your local Service NSW centre. You’ll need to make an appointment to sit your DKT. You can book your appointment online, by phoning 13 22 13, or in person at any Service NSW centre. On the day of your DKT, make sure you bring all the necessary documents:

Option 1 is to bring a NSW Photo Card that is current, or has expired within the last two years (provided it’s not recorded as lost, stolen or destroyed)

Option 2 is to bring one of the following ‘List 1’ documents...

An Australian full birth certificate showing parental details issued by the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages

Commemorative certificates are not acceptable (except for 1987 and 1988 NSW Historic Birth Certificates). See the Births, Deaths and Marriages website for information

An overseas birth certificate showing parental details, provided a passport or an official Australian travel document is also shown

A current Australian passport or one that expired within the last two years. Validation with the Australian Passport Office may be required for passports issued within the last two years. Passports that have been cancelled for any reason, are not accepted

The following travel documents issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade:

A current Certificate of Identity

A current Document of Identity

A current Titre de Voyage

A current overseas passport. Passports that have been cancelled for any reason, are not accepted

An Australian naturalisation or citizenship document, issued by the Australian Government

The following documents issued by the Australian Government:

A Visa Evidence Card

A Document for Travel to Australia (up to five years from the date of issue on the accompanying visa)

Evidence of Immigration Status (EIS) ImmiCard

Permanent Resident Evidence (PRE) ImmiCard

Residence Determination ImmiCard (RDI)

A Roads and Maritime issued NSW photo driver licence or NSW Photo Card that has been expired more than two years, but less than five years. The licence must display a card number and not have been revoked or reported as lost, stolen or destroyed

A current photo driver licence from another Australian state or territory, or one that expired within the last two years. If your interstate licence shows your middle name(s) as initial(s), you’ll require another supporting List 1 or List 2 document that shows your full name

A current photo identity card for the NSW Police Force, excluding civilian staff or family

A current consular photo identity card, issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

...PLUS one of the following ‘List 2’ documents:

A current green or blue Medicare card, Pensioner Concession Card, Department of Veterans' Affairs entitlement card or any other current entitlement card issued by the Australian Government

A current plastic credit card or account card issued by a bank, building society credit union, American Express or Diners Club International, showing your name and signature

A passbook or account statement or letter up to 12 months old, issued by a bank, building society, credit union, American Express or Diners Club International, as long as it includes the following:

Customer's family name and first given name in full

Customer's residential or mailing address

Account number or account type

Financial institute letterhead or financial institute branch stamp.

A telephone (landline only), gas or electricity bill up to 12 months old

A water rates, council rates or land valuation notice up to 12 months old

A current student identity card displaying your photograph, issued by an Australian secondary school, TAFE or university. Where a student identity card has an issue date but no expiry date, it may be accepted up to two years from the date of issue

Evidence of enrolment at an Australian secondary school, TAFE or university up to 12 months old, on the institution's letterhead and showing your name and address

A current Mobility Parking Scheme (MPS) permit issued by Roads and Maritime, with or without a photo

A current photo identity card for the Australian Defence Force, excluding civilian staff or family.

How much does it cost to sit the New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

You’ll have to pay a $24 test fee to sit the DKT and get your learner licence.

Is there anyone I have to bring with me when I sit my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

No, there’s nobody in particular that you have to bring. You’re welcome to bring anyone you like with you to the Service NSW centre, though!

What should I be studying to prepare for my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

The NSW Roads and Maritime Services website recommends just one book to study: The Road Users’ Handbook.

How many questions will my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test have?

In the first part of the test, you’ll be asked 15 general knowledge questions, and you need to get at least 12 correct. You’ll then be asked 30 road safety questions (including traffic signs), and you need to get at least 29 correct.

How high do I need to score to pass my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

You’ll have to answer a total of 41 questions correctly to pass your DKT.

What’s the maximum number of questions I can miss and still pass my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

You can’t miss more than 9 questions on your DKT. If you do, you’ll fail the test.

What are some of the most common mistakes people make in the New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

The most common mistake people make is rushing through questions, which makes them miss questions to which they actually know the answers. The test doesn’t have any trick questions. Just go slowly, think through each answer you give, and try to answer in a way that makes the most sense according to the Road Users’ Handbook you’ve studied.

Can I have my Road Users’ handbook with me while I’m sitting my Driver Knowledge Test?

No, this isn’t an open-book test. The idea is to test whether you really know the Handbook, so you’ll have to work from memory.

Is a drug test involved in the application process for a New South Wales learner licence?

Yes it is. Part of the process is submitting to a quick test to make sure you don’t have any drugs or alcohol in your system.

Which Service NSW centre offers the easiest Driver Knowledge Tests?

Despite what you might’ve heard, there’s no such thing as an ‘easiest’ office to take your DKT. Every office uses the same randomly generated tests, and no two tests are exactly alike. The good news is, though, that the test isn’t particularly hard, as long as you know the material in your Road Users’ Handbook.

Do you have any success stories from people who’ve passed their New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test?

Yes we do! You can read through the success stories right here on our website, all written by people who’ve actually passed their DKTs with the help of our free practice tests.

What will happen if I fail my Driver Knowledge Test?

Nothing too terrible - you’ll just have to schedule a new appointment and pay the test fee again in order to resit the test. You can resit the test as many times as you need to, as long as you keep paying the fee and rescheduling.

How long do I have to wait to resit my Driver Knowledge Test if I fail?

Are there special rules for me while I’m driving on a New South Wales learner licence?

As long as you’re driving on a learner licence rather than a full licence, you must:

Only drive cars

Be supervised at all times by the holder of a full (not learner or provisional) Australian driver licence

Have L plates displayed (black L on an orange/yellow background) clearly at the front and back of the vehicle, on the outside (or an L sign on the roof) when driving. The letter L on the plate must not be hidden

Observe a maximum speed limit of 90 km/h, and observe the posted speed limit where it is below 90km/h

Not tow any other vehicle

Not exceed zero blood alcohol concentration. This means you cannot have any alcohol in your system when you drive a vehicle. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of drugs

Not supervise another learner driver

Only carry the number of passengers that can be properly seated in seats and restrained by approved seat belts or child restraints

Only drive vehicles that have a seat belt fitted to the driver's position, and you must wear the seat belt

Not use any mobile phone, including hands-free devices or loud speaker, while driving, or while your vehicle is stopped, but not parked.

If in Sydney, not drive in Parramatta Park or Centennial Park.

Are there any restrictions about where I can drive when I’m on a New South Wales learner licence?

You may drive anywhere except Parramatta Park or Centennial Park in Sydney, as long as you:

Only drive cars

Be supervised at all times by the holder of a full (not learner or provisional) Australian driver licence

Have L plates displayed (black L on an orange/yellow background) clearly at the front and back of the vehicle, on the outside (or an L sign on the roof) when driving. The letter L on the plate must not be hidden

Observe a maximum speed limit of 90 km/h, and observe the posted speed limit where it is below 90km/h

Not tow any other vehicle

Not exceed zero blood alcohol concentration. This means you cannot have any alcohol in your system when you drive a vehicle. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of drugs

Not supervise another learner driver

Only carry the number of passengers that can be properly seated in seats and restrained by approved seat belts or child restraints

Only drive vehicles that have a seat belt fitted to the driver's position, and you must wear the seat belt

Not use any mobile phone, including hands-free devices or loud speaker, while driving, or while your vehicle is stopped, but not parked.

How should I prepare myself for my New South Wales Driving Test?

The most effective way to prepare is to practice driving! You’ve got to log 120 hours of supervised driving over the next 12 months anyway, so put that practice to good use, and practise driving in a variety of different traffic and weather conditions as you gain more confidence. Spend some more time reviewing the driving safety techniques covered in your Road Users’ Handbook. Make sure you’re familiar with all the mirrors, adjustment levers, and other components of your vehicle. Make sure you know how to safely perform maneuvres like starting, stopping, turning, parking, and merging into traffic.

Where can I sharpen my driving skills in New South Wales?

You can drive almost anywhere, except for Parramatta Park or Centennial Park. It’s best to start on streets that are familiar to you, then gradually work your way up to driving in a variety of different traffic and weather conditions, so you’ll have plenty of practice for your Driving Test.

Why is it so important to get lots of on-road practice before my Driving Test?

The idea of this test is to check whether you’re a safe and competent driver - so getting lots of practice now will make the test itself a lot less stressful for you, because you’ll already know exactly what you’re doing. Besides, the skills you’ll learn in your practice hours will remain useful throughout your entire life, and will help keep yourself and others safe.

Should I hire a driving instructor or take some driving classes before my Driving Test?

It can’t hurt - but you’re not required to. Driving classes are easy to find in your local Yellow Pages or with a quick Google search, and they’ll definitely help get you more calm and confident. On the day of your test, you don’t want to have to worry about anything except following your examiner’s instructions - and practising with an instructor beforehand can help a lot with that.

What happens on the New South Wales Driving Test?

The Driving Test takes place on a course with 25 different zones. Each zone will test your performance in a specific set of tasks, like scanning, checking blind spots, parking, following, buffering, turning, avoiding hazards, or merging into traffic. Throughout the test, your examiner will be assessing your performance in 5 key areas:

Speed management

Road positioning

Decision making

Responding to hazards

Vehicle control

How soon can I take my Driving Test?

You can take your Driving Test once you’ve held your learner licence for at least 12 months, and have completed at least 120 hours of supervised driving practice, including 20 hours of night driving.

How hard is it to pass the New South Wales Driving Test?

If you’ve prepared and practised beforehand, it won’t be hard at all. The examiner is only there to make sure you’re driving safely and legally - and your only real enemy is your own nervousness. Just keep calm, drive carefully, and follow your examiner’s instructions. The only sure way to fail is to rush through the test and do something dangerous, so as long as you avoid that, you should be fine.

What should I do to prepare myself on the night before my Driving Test?

Your only real enemy is your own nervousness, so try to relax and think positive as much as possible. You might also want to read over this article - which is from an American website, but still offers some ideas that might be helpful for you as you think about your NSW Driving Test: 7 Things NOT To Do The Night Before Your DMV Test.

The Day of Your New South Wales Driving Test: Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone else ride in the car with me during my New South Wales Driving Test?

No, you and the examiner must be the only people in the car. This will actually help you, since you’ll be able to stay focused on what he or she is telling you during the test.

What are some tips for passing my New South Wales Driving Test the first time I take it?

Just stay focused on showing the examiner that you’re competent in all five of the key areas:

Speed management

Road positioning

Decision making

Responding to hazards

Vehicle control

What are some common mistakes that cause people to fail their New South Wales Driving Test?

As long as you don’t break any laws or put anyone in danger, you probably won’t have to worry about failing your test. Still, here’s a list of common reasons for failure, provided by New South Wales RMs:

Disobeying traffic signs, signals, or road markings

Failing to give way when necessary

Colliding with a vehicle, pedestrian or object

Performing an illegal act or maneuvre

Exceeding the speed limit

Taking any action requiring officer intervention

Causing a dangerous situation

Failing to maintain proper control of the vehicle

Failing to exercise due care to avoid an accident

Failing to give way to an emergency vehicle

Disobeying instructions from a person controlling traffic

Frequently not signalling intention

Refusing to attempt any part of the test

Repeated or deliberate failure to follow directions

Unreasonable obstructing other vehicles or pedestrians

Receiving external advice or instruction during the test - including the time when you sign the score sheet, and when you’re getting into your vehicle

Not parking to the required standard

Failing to maintain a safe following distance

Frequently not performing observation checks

What will happen during my New South Wales Driving Test?

The Driving Test takes place on a course with 25 different zones. Each zone will test your performance in a specific set of tasks, like scanning, checking blind spots, parking, following, buffering, turning, avoiding hazards, or merging into traffic. Throughout the test, your examiner will be assessing your performance in 5 key areas:

Speed management

Road positioning

Decision making

Responding to hazards

Vehicle control

I wear contact lenses or glasses. Should I wear them during my New South Wales Driving Test?

Yes, you should wear them during the test if you need them to see clearly.

Will I have to sit my Driver Knowledge Test again when I take my Driving Test?

No, there’s no need to sit your Driver Knowledge Test again.

How many times times am I allowed to fail my New South Wales Driving Test?

NSW Roads and Maritime Services will let you retake the drive test as many times as you need to in the 12 months before your learner licence expires. However, you’ll have to book a new appointment and pay the test fee again each time you retake the test.

Why do some people develop a fear of driving? How can I conquer my fear?

Different people develop a fear for driving for different reasons. One of the most common reasons is that they’ve been in an accident - and since our brains are hardwired to learn from traumatic experiences, that experience has made them afraid to be in control of a vehicle ever again. The truth is, though, that driving can be a very safe activity as long as you follow the rules and stay aware of your surroundings. To conquer your fear, take a look at www.fear-of-driving.org. The more you drive for yourself, the more that fear will start to fade.

What else should keep in mind on the day of my New South Wales Driving Test?

As long as you’re a safe, careful driver, you shouldn’t have any major problems on the test. Just follow the examiner’s instructions, and show him or her how capable you are. Just remember to do all the following:

I Passed My New South Wales Driving Test! What Happens Now? FAQ

I passed my New South Wales Driving Test! What are my next steps?

Congratulations! Hard work really does pay off! Now, as long as you’re at least 17 years old and have held your learner licence for at least 12 months, you’ll simply pay the licence and test fees and get your P1 licence. Only 4 steps left until you’re driving on a full licence:

What are the restrictions on my P1 licence?

For the next 6 months, you must:

Only drive cars. You cannot apply to upgrade your licence to a higher class

Have P plates displayed (red P on a white background) clearly on the front and back of the vehicle, on the outside. The letter P on the plate must not be hidden. If you’re towing a trailer, a P plate must be on the back of the trailer

Not tow any trailer more than 250 kilograms of unloaded weight. You must display a P plate (red P on a white background) on the back of the trailer while towing

Not exceed zero blood alcohol concentration. This means you cannot have any alcohol in your system when you drive a vehicle. It’s also illegal to drive under the influence of drugs

Not supervise a learner driver

Ensure all occupants, including yourself, are in a seat that has a seatbelt or an approved restraint fitted, and that each passenger is using the seatbelt or restraint

Not use any mobile phones, including hand free devices or loudspeaker, while driving or while your vehicle is stopped, but not parked

Only drive automatic transmission vehicles, or clutchless manual vehicles, if you took your driving test in this type of vehicle. Your licence card will show the A034 condition on the front.

Not drive a vehicle with more than one passenger (other than the driver) who is under 21, between 11pm and 5am

Be subject to the demerit points system. Your P1 licence will be suspended or refused if you reach or exceed 4 demerit points.

What should I be aware of when driving in New South Wales for the first time?

You need to be aware of the average speed limits: 50kph in urban areas, 100kph in rural areas, and 110kph on motorways and freeways - unless other speed limit signs are posted. Also, keep an eye out out for bikeways (also known as bicycle lanes). These are special lanes for bicycles, which some streets have. Watch out, because you can get demerits (or worse) for driving in one of them. Please, NEVER drink and drive. New South Wales takes DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol) extremely seriously, and you’ll lose your hard-earned licence in the blink of an eye if you’re caught with any alcohol in your bloodstream.

What happens during the New South Wales Hazard Perception Test?

The HPT is a computer-based touch screen test that measures your ability to recognise potentially dangerous situations on the road and respond appropriately. It aims to make sure P1 drivers have enough hazard perception skills to progress to a P2 licence. The test questions and situations focus on the five most common crash types for NSW provisional drivers - crashes caused by:

Travelling too closely behind other vehicles

Driving too fast for the conditions

Not looking far enough ahead when driving

Choosing gaps that are too small when making turns, crossing intersections or overtaking

The test uses film clips of real traffic situations. In each clip, you’ll be asked to respond by touching the screen, for example when you would slow down, overtake, or turn at an intersection. There are 15 film clips in the test. You’ll be given two clips to practice on, before the test begins.

Where will I sit my New South Wales Hazard Perception Test?

It depends on the nominated location you’re given when you book your testing appointment. You can book online, by phoning 13 22 13, or in person at any Service NSW centre.

How soon am I allowed to attempt the Hazard Perception Test?

Once you’ve held your P1 licence for at least 12 months, you can attempt the HPT. However, you shouldn’t feel under any pressure to attempt the test immediately.

How should I make sure I’m ready on the night before my Hazard Perception Test?

The Day of Your New South Wales Hazard Perception Test (HPT): Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to bring with me to my New South Wales Hazard Perception Test?

How can I make sure I’ll pass my New South Wales Hazard Perception Test on the first attempt?

The surest way to pass is to have lots of experience avoiding driving hazards - exactly the kind of experience you’ll get from your 120 hours of driving practice. One way to focus on getting this experience is to get as much driving experience in different conditions as you can. It’s also worthwhile to ask for tips from more experienced drivers, who can tell you how they handled some of the more extreme hazards they’ve run into in their years on the roads. You can also practise with the online modules on the NSW Roads and Maritime Services website: http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/driver/tests/hazard-perception-test.html.

What are some important things to keep in mind for my New South Wales Hazard Perception Test?

The main types of hazards you’ll be watching for on the test are those caused by the following factors:

Travelling too closely behind other vehicles

Driving too fast for the conditions

Not looking far enough ahead when driving

Choosing gaps that are too small when making turns, crossing intersections or overtaking

What are some common mistakes to avoid on my New South Wales Hazard Perception Test?

Most people’s mistakes fit into 2 general categories:

not noticing a hazard in one of the film clips

responding too slowly to the hazard

Still, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to rush. Just keep calm, watch each clip, and respond in the way that feels most correct to you.

What will I have to do during my New South Wales Hazard Perception Test?

The test uses film clips of real traffic situations. In each clip, you’ll be asked to respond by touching the screen, for example when you would slow down, overtake, or turn at an intersection. There are 15 film clips in the test. You’ll be given two clips to practice on, before the test begins. The clips will test your ability to recognise and respond to hazards caused by the following factors:

Travelling too closely behind other vehicles

Driving too fast for the conditions

Not looking far enough ahead when driving

Choosing gaps that are too small when making turns, crossing intersections or overtaking

Will I have to resit my Driver Knowledge Test when I sit my Hazard Perception Test?

No, you don’t need to take a Driver Knowledge Test again.

What’s the maximum number of times I’m allowed to fail my New South Wales Hazard Perception Test?

NSW Roads and Maritime Services will let you resit your HPT as many times as you need to until your P1 licence expires. However, you’ll have to book a new appointment and pay the test fee again each time you resit the the test.

I’ve Passed My New South Wales Hazard Perception Test! What now?

Fantastic work! You’re getting closer to a full licence! Right now, as long as you’ve held your P1 licence for at least 6 months, you’ll simply pay the licence and test fees and get your P2 licence. Only 2 steps left until you’re driving on a full licence:

What are the restrictions on my New South Wales P2 licence?

Use mobile phones for calls and audio only. The phone must be securely mounted, or you must use an automated audio device. Touching a phone (e.g., text or video functions) is against the law

Have P plates displayed (green P on a white background) clearly on the front and back of the vehicle, on the outside. The letter P on the plate must not be hidden. If you’re towing a trailer, a P plate must be on the back of the trailer

What things should I study for my New South Wales Driver Qualification Test?

As the NSW Roads and Maritime Services website explains, the DQT is designed to assess your knowledge of road safety issues, and to assess your ability to recognise hazards and respond appropriately. In other words, it’s a bit like an advanced version of the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) combined with the Hazard Perception Test (HPT). It’s the final test you’ll take to get your full licence, which means it covers everything you’ve studied and practised up to this point. One important way to prepare for the HPT is to get as much driving experience in different conditions as you can. You’ll also need to study the Driver Qualification Handbook. Finally, you’ll want to use the online practice modules available on the NSW Roads and Maritime Services website: http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/driver/tests/driver-qualification-test.html.

What’s covered on the New South Wales Driver Qualification Test?

The DQT consists of 2 main sections:

Part 1 is an advanced safe driving knowledge test consisting of 15 multiple choice questions. It’ll test your knowledge of all sections of the Driver Qualification Handbook, in the following areas:

Understanding and managing driving risk

Adverse consequences of road crashes

Causes of road crashes

Motivation and driving behaviour

Risk taking and driving

Alcohol, drugs and driving

Fatigue and crash risk

Distractions and crash risk

Expectancies

Looking out for yourself and others

Hazard perception skills.

Part 2 tests your hazard perception skills. It consists of 10 traffic situations, some of which will require long or multiple responses. It’ll focus in particular on part 3 of the Driver Qualification Handbook: ‘Hazard Perception – Revision and Further Development.’ It’ll assess your ability to identify and respond to hazards caused by the following factors:

Travelling too closely behind other vehicles

Driving too fast for the conditions

Not looking far enough ahead when driving

Choosing gaps that are too small when making turns, crossing intersections, or turning

Where will I sit my New South Wales Driver Qualification Test?

It depends on the nominated location you’re given when you book your testing appointment. You can book online, by phoning 13 22 13, or in person at any Service NSW centre.

How soon am I allowed to attempt the Driver Qualification Test?

Once you’ve held your P2 licence for at least 2 years (24 months), you can attempt the DQT. However, you shouldn’t feel under any pressure to attempt the test immediately.

How should I make sure I’m ready on the night before my Driver Qualification Test?

What are some important things to keep in mind for my New South Wales Driver Qualification Test?

The DQT will be more intensive than any of the tests you’ve taken up to this point. It won’t treat you as a learner, but as a full, experienced driver. Still, that doesn’t mean you should be nervous about the test - in fact, your best strategy is simply to stay calm and keep a positive attitude. A test like this is hard to study for all in one go, because it covers so many things that you’ve learned throughout your entire driving experience. If you’re scoring high on the online practice modules, you’ll probably have no problem passing the DQT.

What are some common mistakes to avoid on my New South Wales Driver Qualification Test?

Most common mistakes on Part 1 come from rushing through questions to which you actually do know the answer. Take your time, read through each question carefully, and answer in a way that sounds like what the Driver Qualification Handbook would say. Most common mistakes on Part 2 fit into 2 general categories:

not noticing a hazard in one of the scenes

responding too slowly to the hazard

Don’t rush. Just keep calm, read or watch each question, and make sure you’ve given a full, complete answer before you move on.

What will I have to do during my New South Wales Driver Qualification Test?

The DQT consists of 2 main sections:

Part 1 is an advanced safe driving knowledge test consisting of 15 multiple choice questions. It’ll test your knowledge of all sections of the Driver Qualification Handbook, in the following areas:

Understanding and managing driving risk

Adverse consequences of road crashes

Causes of road crashes

Motivation and driving behaviour

Risk taking and driving

Alcohol, drugs and driving

Fatigue and crash risk

Distractions and crash risk

Expectancies

Looking out for yourself and others

Hazard perception skills.

Part 2 tests your hazard perception skills. It consists of 10 traffic situations, some of which will require long or multiple responses. It’ll focus in particular on part 3 of the Driver Qualification Handbook: ‘Hazard Perception – Revision and Further Development.’ It’ll assess your ability to identify and respond to hazards caused by the following factors:

Travelling too closely behind other vehicles

Driving too fast for the conditions

Not looking far enough ahead when driving

Choosing gaps that are too small when making turns, crossing intersections, or turning

Will I have to resit any of the earlier tests when I sit my Driver Qualification Test?

No, you don’t need to resit any of the earlier tests.

What’s the maximum number of times I’m allowed to fail my New South Wales Driver Qualification Test?

NSW Roads and Maritime Services will let you resit your DQT as many times as you need to until your P2 licence expires. However, you’ll have to book a new appointment and pay the test fee again each time you resit the the test.

I’ve Passed My New South Wales Driver Qualification Test! What now?

You’re all done! You’re now qualified for a full licence. Simply pay the licence and test fees and your licence will soon arrive in the post.

I Failed One of My New South Wales Tests! What’s Going to Happen? FAQ

I failed my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test (DKT), Driving Test, Hazard Perception Test (HPT), or Driver Qualification Test (DQT)! How long do I have to wait before I’m allowed to sit it again?

NSW Roads and Maritime Services will let you resit any test as many times as you need to until your current licence expires. However, you’ll have to book a new appointment and pay the test fee again each time you resit the any test.

I failed my New South Wales Driver Knowledge Test (DKT), Driving Test, Hazard Perception Test (HPT), or Driver Qualification Test (DQT)! What should I do now?

Most importantly, get feedback from your examiner - or look over your graded test - and find out which areas you need to improve. That’s your next step: Study, study, study, until you know those areas by heart. You’ll have to book a new appointment and pay the test fee again in order to resit your test - but as soon as you think you’re ready, you’re always welcome to give it another go.

Car Insurance In New South Wales: Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of car insurance do I need to get for driving in New South Wales?

NSW Roads and Maritime Services requires all drivers to carry third-party motor insurance. This kind of insurance will protect other people in case of medical or property damage from an accident in which you’re involved - but it won’t cover damage to you or your own vehicle. This means it’s probably a good idea to carry some insurance for yourself and your vehicle as well, so you’re covered in case of an emergency.

What documents will I need when I sign up for car insurance in New South Wales?

The only things you’ll need are a car and a driver’s licence.

How much will I end up paying for car insurance New South Wales?

Unfortunately there’s no single clear answer to this, because it’s going to depend on a lot of different factors. For example, your choice of insurance company, your age, the number many people your policy covers, the kind of car you have, and the spotlessness (or lack thereof) of your driving record will all impact the insurance rate you pay.

Who offers the best car insurance prices in New South Wales?

The answer to this question will depend on a lot of different aspects of your own situation. You’ll only find out who’ll offer you the best rate when you do your own research and compare the rates that various companies offer you. Even so, here are a few pointers to help you know what you’re looking for:

One almost-guaranteed way to get a better rate is to drive a car that’s in a lower-risk insurance group.

Why does car insurance for new drivers cost so much more in New South Wales?

For a very simple and sobering reason: Approximately 50% of drivers under 20 get a demerit, or end up in an accident, within their first year on the road. One of the main reasons for this is that new drivers tend to drive above the speed limit, which makes it harder to control a car, and contributes to many accidents that could’ve easily been avoided with careful driving. This means that every new driver is a financial risk for an insurance company. In a few years, though, if you’ve kept a clean driving record, your rates will start to get lower.

If your interstate licence is expired, you will also need to pay the relevant licence fee.

I’ve got a learner licence from another Australian State or Territory, or from New Zealand. Is it valid in New South Wales?

If you hold a learner licence from another state or country, you can continue to learn to drive in NSW. However:

You must comply with the conditions that apply to learners in NSW, even if they don’t ordinarily apply in your home state or country. You must also comply with all relevant conditions that apply to the licence in your home state or country.

You must always be supervised by the holder of an unrestricted Australian driver licence that is a class C or higher

It is your responsibility to be aware of the conditions that apply to your licence.

Failure to comply with any of these conditions is an offence, and can carry severe penalties, including immediate suspension of your driving privileges by NSW Police.

Am I allowed to drive in New South Wales on an out-of-country licence or learner licence?

If you hold an overseas licence, you are allowed to drive the vehicles covered by your overseas licence in NSW indefinitely, as long as:

You remain a temporary overseas visitor

Your overseas licence remains current

You have not been disqualified from driving in NSW or anywhere else

You have not had your licence suspended or cancelled, or your visiting driving privileges withdrawn

You carry your overseas driver or rider licence. If your licence is not written in English, you must also carry an English translation, or an International Driving Permit.

You don’t have to get a NSW licence if you comply with these conditions, and can prove your genuine visitor status to NSW Police, if required. You should read the Road Users Handbook to learn the current road rules in NSW.

If you hold a learner licence from another state or country, you can continue to learn to drive in NSW. However:

You must comply with the conditions that apply to learners in NSW, even if they don’t ordinarily apply in your home state or country. You must also comply with all relevant conditions that apply to the licence in your home state or country.

You must always be supervised by the holder of an unrestricted Australian driver licence that is a class C or higher

It is your responsibility to be aware of the conditions that apply to your licence.

Failure to comply with any of these conditions is an offence, and can carry severe penalties, including immediate suspension of your driving privileges by NSW Police.

Misc. Frequently Asked Questions About New South Wales Driver’s Licences

At what age will I be allowed to legally drive in New South Wales?

You’ll be allowed to drive in New South Wales at the age of 16 - as long as you’ve earned your learner licence, and you’ve always got a licenced driver aged 21 or older in the car with you when you’re driving. But you’ll have to wait until you’ve gotten at least a P1 licence to drive alone to school or work - and a P2 licence to drive alone to other places.

How much alcohol can I have in my bloodstream when I drive in New South Wales?

NONE AT ALL. Penalties are even harsher if you’re driving on a learner licence, or a P1 or P2 licence. During these periods, you’re in criminal violation if your blood alcohol content is anything above 0.00%. This means you can get your licence suspended or revoked if you get caught driving with any alcohol in your blood at all during these periods. And even once you’re driving on a full licence, please, NEVER drink and drive. It puts you and everyone around you in serious danger of injury... or worse.

Sometimes people talk about ‘defensive driving.’ What do they mean when they say this?

They just mean staying aware of your surroundings, and driving while keeping a lookout for hazards. Another way to say it is that defensive driving is driving with the deliberate intent of minimising danger to yourself, your vehicle, and people and property around you. Or to put it yet another way, here’s what ‘Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operations’ has to say: 'driving to save lives, time and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others'. Studies have found that 90% of accidents result from avoidable mistakes - and defensive driving aims to prevent those mistakes. One great way to learn defensive driving is in a driving course - and in fact, this can often get you discounts on car insurance. But here are some ways to start driving defensively right now:

Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and any vehicle front of you.

Watch your mirrors, and watch what’s happening to the side of your vehicle, as well as behind you.

And most important of all, NEVER assume that anyone else is driving carefully!

Some people decide never to get a driver’s licence. Why is that?

There are all sorts of possible answers to this question, and each person who chooses not to get a driver’s licence has his or her own story. Fear of driving is one common reason. Other people just never see a need for a driver’s licence, since someone else in their life is always doing the driving.

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